LUFKIN, TX - As the U.S. 59/Loop 287 N. Interchange Project in Lufkin progresses, the Texas Department of Transportation and its contractor, Webber, LLC of Houston, are planning to move northbound U.S. 59 traffic to the newly built direct connector bridge Tuesday afternoon, May 6, weather permitting.

Motorists are reminded to use caution when traveling through the area as traffic acclimates to the new flow. According to TxDOT, the northbound connector/U.S. 59 mainlanes is complete but preparations continue for the traffic switch as does work on other portions of the project.

Moving traffic to the new bridge will impact travel for those on intersecting roadways. Here is a look at what motorists can expect:

• Westbound Loop 287 traffic will now have the opportunity to continue on The Loop or take the new direct connector to U.S. 59 northbound.• Westbound Loop 287 traffic wanting to take FM 2021 will still have that opportunity. • Eastbound Loop 287 traffic wanting to go north on U.S. 59 must take the newly constructed portion of the Eastbound Frontage Road, just past Davisville Road, and continue on under the Moffett overpass and re-enter traffic via a temporary ramp from the Westbound Frontage Road to the Loop 287 mainlanes.• The two ramp entrances from Loop 287 to U.S. 59 will be permanently closed on Tuesday.

The three-year, $52 million project is expected to be completed in late fall 2015. As construction progresses, TxDOT encourages motorists to plan ahead allowing extra time or using alternate routes to reach their destinations. Caution is advised when traveling through this and all work zones. Motorists are also reminded to slow down and obey all traffic control devices. Remember, traffic fines double when workers are present.

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for two East Texas Counties. Shelby and San Augustine Counties are under a tornado warning until 9 p.m. Please seek shelter immediately. This story will continue to update. Stay with KLTV for the latest updates. Copyright 2018 KLTV. All rights reserved.

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for two East Texas Counties. Shelby and San Augustine Counties are under a tornado warning until 9 p.m. Please seek shelter immediately. This story will continue to update. Stay with KLTV for the latest updates. Copyright 2018 KLTV. All rights reserved.